Episode 190: Letting Go of Shame in ADHD Business Ownership [featuring Priyanka Rao]
In this episode, I spoke with Dr. Priyanka Rao, licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Asha Mental Health, about what it means to be an ADHD entrepreneur — the challenges, the resilience, and how to thrive authentically.
Dr. Rao shared her late-diagnosis journey, how motherhood illuminated her ADHD, and the mindset shifts that fuel her leadership, coaching, and private practice ambitions. Her real-talk about embracing neurodiversity in entrepreneurship is a must-hear.
Here are 3 key takeaways:
- Embrace How Your Brain Works: Letting go of self-blame and outdated expectations is liberating. Accepting your unique wiring means you’re not lazy or disorganized — just wired differently. Plan for your patterns rather than fighting them.
- Permission to Delegate: You don’t have to do it all. Delegation isn’t a weakness; it’s a strategy for growth. Investing in support and systems early on helps you stay energized and focused on what matters most.
- Vision + Values over Hustle: Get clear about where you want to go and make decisions aligned with your long-term values, not just the next shiny idea. Surround yourself with supportive peers and mentors who can offer perspective (and keep you grounded).
More about Priyanka:
Dr. Priyanka Rao is a licensed clinical psychologist based in Minneapolis and the founder of Asha Mental Health, a private practice specializing in neurodiversity-affirming and multiculturally inclusive mental health care. She is also an executive coach for leaders and entrepreneurs, especially those with ADHD. As a late-diagnosed ADHDer herself, Dr. Rao brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work, particularly in neurodiversity affirming adult ADHD and autism assessment. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Rao has extensive leadership experience, having served as Chief Clinical Officer of a large group practice prior to opening her own practice. When she’s not empowering clients to embrace their authentic selves, she enjoys reading, trying new foods, and spending time with her family and dog.
- Instagram: @ashacoach
- www.ashamh.com
- www.asha-coaching.com
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Mentioned in this episode:
The Receptionist for iPad
The Receptionist for iPad is a HIPAA-ready digital check-in system that eliminates the need to walk back and forth from your office to the waiting room to see if your next appointment has arrived. Clients or patients can check in for their appointments, and you'll be immediately notified by text, email, or your preferred channel. Break free from interruptions and make the most of your time, because it is valuable. Start a free 14-day trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to https://thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link to get your first month free if you decide to sign up.
